Tell it Often, Tell it Well

Written by Vonette Bright

spiritualgrowth_tell The following is an interview of Vonette Bright on having conversations that count.

Communique: When you first learned that evangelism was part of the Christian life, how did you feel?

Vonette: I was so excited about what I had just learned – what had just happened in my life – that I was eager to share. The Christians that I was around were positive, attractive, radiant people talking about Christ, and that changed my attitude. I wanted to be like that also.

C: Are you ever afraid to share your faith?

Vonette: I am always afraid. Sometimes it’s so natural – it just fits into a conversation easily. But to take the initiative is always a risk. I always have to push through faith barriers and remind myself that the definition of successful witnessing is taking the initiative to share Christ, in the power of the Holy Spirit, leaving the results to God.

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C: What are you afraid of?

Vonette: Offending, rejection, giving a wrong impression or misrepresenting Christ. There are so many issues today, and I want to honor Christ in the way I respond to a person. I have learned that arguing gains nothing, and you can learn so much more by talking–having a good conversation. When I think of it like that – having a conversation with someone– it helps me not be afraid.

C: What do you think that most women misunderstand about evangelism?

Vonette: The word. Unfortunately “evangelism” has a negative connotation of pressing and forcing as issue. Really though, sharing our faith is us taking the initiative, and if there is no response, be sensitive. Don’t press. Pray and pursue further if there is an opening. You don’t have to offend. The cross of Christ should be the only thing that is offensive. I also think that many women feel that evangelism is someone else’s job. They think it is for the “gifted.” But the Bible says that we are all His ambassadors and the Great Commission in Matthew 28:18-20 was given to us all.

C: Do you see many changes in the way people respond to Christ now compared to 40 years ago?

Vonette: I think more people know how to receive Christ today. There are programs and churches on television every day. I think many people have prayed to receive Christ – but there is no evidence of a changed life. Therefore, when I meet people who say they are Christians, I ask them, “Are you a professing or practising Christian?” Many times they don’t understand what it means to have a vital relationship with Christ. Then I am able to share that with them.

Taken from Women Today International, Volume One, Issue Ten, October 1998.